Weigela are deciduous shrubs with graceful arching branches that are covered in masses of trumpet-shaped flowers during spring. Although two species are offered by wholesale nurseries, it is Weigela florida and its cultivars that are the forms most widely grown in Australian gardens and used by landscapers.
Weigela florida, with its attractive pink flowers and distinctive red throat, remains one of the most popular forms. A number of cultivars are available, including the variegated W. florida ‘Variegata’, which combines spring flowers with green foliage edged in creamy yellow for added interest throughout the growing season.
Depending on the variety, Weigela generally grows to around 1–2 metres high, with some larger cultivars reaching closer to 3 metres.
We have grown a number of Weigela cultivars over the years and have found them to be reliable, easy-care shrubs. In cooler climates they flower best in full sun, while in warmer parts of Australia they perform better with some protection from hot afternoon sun, helping the foliage remain fresh and extending the display of flowers.
Quick Facts
- Botanical name: Weigela florida and cultivars
- Common name: Weigela
- Plant type: Deciduous flowering shrub
- Height: 1–3 metres
- Width: 1–3 metres
- Flowers: Pink, red or white depending on variety
- Flowering season: Spring, with some modern varieties flowering again through summer and autumn
- Position: Full sun to part shade
- Soil: Well-drained, humus-rich soil
- Water needs: Moderate
- Frost tolerance: Good
- Suitable for pots: Compact varieties
Landscaping Uses
Useful in landscaping schemes where a flowering feature plant with good summer foliage if required.
How To Grow Weigela – Basic Care
These are a spring flowering plant and should be planted where the flowers can be appreciated
- Best grown in a sunny position with a little afternoon shade in hotter climates.
- A humus ricg well drained soil is best.
- Plant and water in well.
- Mulch around the plant to suppress weeds and maingtain a cool root run.
- Fertilise each spring and renew the mulch.
Although they prefer a humus rich soil but are a fairly hardy plant that requires little care.
How To Prune
Pruning involves removing old canes every 3 years once established and removing any damaged material, shaping can be carried out as required as required.
The best time to prune is after flowering as Weigela are a plant that flower on the previous years growth.
Weigela Varieties
- W. ‘Looymansii Aurea’ has wonderful pale green foliage, excellent for a more shaded position.
- W. Rosea seems to have deeper pink flowers than some.
- W. ‘Alba’ has white flowers
- W. ‘Eva Rathke’ has deeper pink to red flowers.
- W. ‘Follis Purpureis’ is a lower growing form with deep pink flowers and purple tinged foliage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Weigela grow in shade?
Weigela will tolerate part shade, although flowering is generally heavier in full sun. In warmer climates, protection from hot afternoon sun is often beneficial.
Is Weigela evergreen?
No. Weigela is a deciduous shrub and loses its leaves during winter before producing fresh growth in spring.
Is Weigela drought tolerant?
Once established, Weigela is reasonably drought tolerant, although regular watering during prolonged dry periods will improve growth and flowering.
Does Weigela attract bees?
Yes. The trumpet-shaped flowers are attractive to bees and other beneficial pollinating insects during the flowering season.
Where To Buy Weigela Plants
470 Monbulk-Silvan Road Monbulk VIC 3793
"Guaranteed mail order flowering bulbs, perennials, roses, trees, landscaping plants, garden accessories and community fundraising Austra lia-wide."
www.gardenexpress.com.au
412 James Lane, Fern Hill VIC. 3458 - Phone 0419002651
Large range of Rare plants, Climbers, Bulbs, Perennials Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. Available both Retail and by Mail Order
www.whitehousenursery.com.au